social situations - etiquette - golden rules

Ever wondered how to accept or decline  a formal invitation for a wedding or function- what to wear, when to arrive - bang on time or fashionably late? Well we are going to answer your questions here on Wisequeen. The golden rule - Is to treat others as you would be treated. I have one  absolute golden rule when it comes to correspondence of any kind, whether by mail, email or SMS.  ANSWER IT! Yes even if it's just to say, yes I got your note, email, sms, fax and I'll get back to you. There is nothing more frustrating than waiting and wondering if  someone got it. It's rude and bad business practice. If you ask someone to send you details, files, answers, immediately acknowledge when you receive them- as a minimum. Another one, if you are invited to a wedding, dinner, or weekend away don't assume you can drag your bored children with, or your friends. Unless the invitation is for an open gathering for drinks in a bar and you are encouraged to bring friends along. Don't do it. If you are invited as a couple, go as a couple. You will mess up seating arrangements and catering numbers. If you have a new partner request their inclusion in the list in writing and give full name for introductions, place names etc. Arrive on time. That's at 8, if you were invited at 8. Don't arrive early whatever you do, the host may be trying to grab a quick shower and changing out of her apron as you ring the doorbell. This will stress her/him all evening as she has to go without make up  or with wet hair because you arrived just as the husband was stuffing the ironing board and toys in the hall cupboard. He's forgotten to decant the wine because you arrived early and he had to greet you. At a wedding arrive on time as all the guests should be seated awaiting the bride. Do not wear white or up stage the bride by wearing a dress open to your navel. It's not your day to shine even if you hope to nab the best man. Try to avoid all black too, for obvious reasons. Send RSPV before or on the deadline given. Last minute planning and changes stress everyone especially the couple, who already have to try and fit in ten family members they hadn't included. Don't ring to accept or refuse if you received a written invite, send back the RSPV card - a phone call may go un-recorded or  not be remembered. Always arrive at a dinner party with fresh breath and in a good mood with something in your hands.  Fresh Flowers and good wine never go unwelcomed. Enjoy! Wisequeen Have a comment, question or pet peeve? send it to us in a comment below.